The special investigative task team established to handle cases from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has recorded its first major breakthrough with the arrest of a suspect in the murder of Marius Van Der Merwe, also known as Witness D.
The suspect was apprehended in Johannesburg on Saturday, 14 March 2026. Authorities believe he is the individual who shot and killed Van Der Merwe.
The team, which was established by National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola on the instruction of the President, assumed control of the investigation shortly after being appointed. Following the gathering of what police describe as overwhelming evidence, the team obtained a J50 warrant for the suspect’s arrest earlier this week.
In addition to the arrest, the team is currently conducting search and seizure operations at several addresses linked to the suspect. A vehicle believed to have been used in the murder has also been seized.
The suspect is scheduled to make his first court appearance before the Brakpan Magistrates Court on Monday, 16 March 2026.